MUSIC, COMMUNITY & GIVING BACK

On November 27, 2026 Two Way Street Coffee House’s Friday Night Concert Series partners once again with Music & Potlucks for a special benefit concert supporting West Suburban Community Pantry. Join us for an evening of folk music, friendship, and a chance to help neighbors in need.

This year’s concert features three Chicago-area favorites: Cooler by the Lake, Ashley & Simpson, and Mark Dvorak joined by Marianne Mohrhusen. Each brings a different voice to the evening, united by a love of acoustic music and the community that grows around it.

Music & Potlucks brings people together through music and cultural gatherings to support local social service organizations. Its events turn the simple act of sharing songs into an opportunity to give forward. Our annual partnership celebrates that spirit and invites our Two Way Street audience to be part of it.

Bring nonperishable food donations for West Suburban Community Pantry. Whether you attend in person or watch online, we hope you’ll join us in supporting our neighbors.

Doors: 7:30 p.m. • Concert: 8:00 p.m. [CONFIRM]
All donations go to Music & Potlucks to support West Suburban Community Pantry.

Livestream: twowaystreet.org, Facebook, and YouTube

ABOUT THE ARTISTS

Cooler by the Lake

Cooler by the Lake is a Chicago-area acoustic folk ensemble whose music feels like a front-porch gathering. Formed among friends in the near west suburbs, the group grew from appearances at festivals, farmers markets, and community benefits. Stephanie Kay, Stephanie Rath, Betsy Backes, Jean Bacom, and Terrence Keleher bring voices, flute, fiddle, guitars, and upright bass to warm harmonies and spirited arrangements. Their longstanding commitment to supporting local nonprofits makes them an especially fitting part of this benefit concert.

Ashley & Simpson

Jennifer Ashley and Joel Simpson blend traditional folk music, original songwriting, and close vocal harmonies. Drawing on classical backgrounds and influences that reach into jazz and popular song, the duo brings a fresh perspective to acoustic arrangements while honoring the communal spirit of folk music. As directors of Two Way Street Coffee House, they are especially happy to join this evening of music and giving.

Mark Dvorak

Often described as a modern-day troubadour and a “folk singer’s folk singer,” Mark Dvorak brings an expansive knowledge of traditional songs, expressive original writing, country blues guitar, old-time banjo, and a gift for getting audiences singing together. His performances mix music, humor, stories, and a little history. Mark has been a resident artist with Music & Potlucks since 2017, making him a natural part of this special collaboration.